The Resident Review: Saints & Sinners (Season 3 Episode 3)
The Resident Season 3 Episode 3, “Saints & Sinners,” is intimate and even-paced, allowing us to focus-in on Conrad’s struggle with control.
The philosophical episode brings us back to the very beginning of The Resident. We once again are at the bedside of our characters as they determine for themselves what it means to “do no harm.”
“Saints & Sinners,” isn’t repetitive, though. Conrad, Nic, and Devon have developed and grown since The Resident Season 1 Episode 1, “Pilot.”
And it is fascinating to see that despite growth, Conrad is still rather stuck in the same perfectionist spot as before.
Conrad in Control
Conrad has survived adversity and trauma by staying in control.
The hurt detective that comes into the hospital, played superbly by Alimi Ballard, reminds us of Conrad’s history with control when he brings up the intensity and danger of Conrad’s past military missions. Conrad dips and ducks, using his charm to avoid talking about himself.
I am not sure there is a more guarded character on TV. It is easy to miss because Dr. Hawkins is not brusque or rude like a Dr. House. You feel like it’s a mutual back and forth relationship.
But, no. Conrad keeps it close to his chest, even with Nic who he loves more than anything.
Conrad ends up making the decision to save the most people, even if it hurts one person.
This is in line with his past style, but, he’s in a new context now. He is in a relationship with the love of his life. Things are going well. But, what is going to happen when he can’t find out the answer, when he makes a big mistake, or when HE is on the operating table?
The Resident is slowly sewing up the procedure it started in the pilot: for a person ruled by “death before dishonor,” and “first, do no harm,” where is there room for vulnerability? And, what will be the costs to clinging to control?
Conrad’s inability to be completely vulnerable is hanging in the air at Chastain and at the CoNic household.
I, for one, can’t wait for the storm to hit.
Supplemental Income
Dr. Bell reaches peak creep levels on the episode. The way the supplement deal goes down is all kinds of shady. And that’s where Dr. Bell is now.
He has chosen neither the dark side nor the light side; Bell has chosen the shady side.
I’m not thrilled that this storyline is distant from the staff at Chastain. It feels like it will keep him separate. As a character, Bell works best when his choices create moral dilemmas for the core four.
But, it is a chance for us to be educated on the billion-dollar supplement industry. So, I’m listening.
Dr. Kitt Voss is a phenomenal character and her absence is missed, even on a single episode. Fingers, toes, and tounges crossed that she returns soon.
Nevertheless, She’s Nic Nevin
Dr. Cain recognizes Nic Nevin’s excellence and prowess as a nurse. She can do it all.
As a patient-first practitioner, she is unafraid to advocate for the best care no matter the dollar cost.
So why in the gosh darn world does Cain want her on his team?
The mystery surrounding Cain’s motives grows on the episode. Nic is bound to cause him to lose billing opportunities. But, there is absolutely a reason for him to be focused on her.
We learned on The Resident Season 3 Episode 2, “Flesh of my Flesh” that Cain is all about image. Could he be trying to use Nic as a smokescreen to cover up his activities behind it?
I am fascinated and very, very suspicious.
I can’t give any episode without Mina a full five stars, but “Saints & Sinners,” is another excellent episode on a nearly flawless season.
Doctors Notes
- CoNic being all cute and coupley makes me high-key giddy. I could watch them tease each other about socks all day.
- I am still hot for Conrad’s old apartment, but wow, the kitchen on their new home is drop-dead gorgeous.
- I miss Eloise.
- Nurse Jessica objectifies men a LOT. It would be fascinating to explore that and unpack why it’s harmful.
- The Raptor and Cain OR pissing match is awkward and hilarious. I still don’t trust him as far as I can throw him, but I like that Cain compliments Raptor at the end.
- Devon finds confidence in all the right things on the episode. Good for you, bb!
- I miss Mina.
- I had nearly forgotten about the word, “schtupping.” Thanks for the reminder, The Resident!
- “Wait for It” from Hamilton plays in my mind throughout the episode. “Death doesn’t discriminate/between the sinners and the saints/it just takes and it takes and it takes/we keep living anyway.”
What did you think of this episode of The Resident? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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The Resident airs Tuesdays at 8/7c on Fox.
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Janelle Ureta
Janelle Ureta is equal parts Veronica Mars, Raven Reyes, and Rebecca Bunch, but she aspires to add some Tammy Taylor to the mix. An attorney turned teacher, Janelle believes in the power of a well-told story. She is currently exploring how to tell short stories, 140 characters or less, on twitter. She loves to talk about TV, and right now she can't shut up about Timeless, Dear White People, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, The 100, or Younger.